Baked Salmon with Avocado Mash Recipe

If you’re craving a dish that feels like a warm hug on a plate, look no further than this delightful Baked Salmon with Avocado Mash. This recipe marries the rich, buttery texture of perfectly baked salmon with the creamy, zesty freshness of avocado mash, making it a celebration of flavor and nutrition in every bite. Whether you’re whipping up a quick weeknight dinner or impressing guests, this combination hits all the right notes: vibrant, healthy, and incredibly satisfying.

Baked Salmon with Avocado Mash Recipe - Recipe Image

Ingredients You’ll Need

The beauty of Baked Salmon with Avocado Mash lies in its simplicity, with a handful of fresh ingredients coming together to create a symphony of flavors. Each component is essential: from the spices that add depth to the salmon to the fresh lime that brightens up the avocado mash.

  • 4 salmon fillets: Choose fresh, skin-on fillets for the best flavor and texture.
  • Salt and black pepper to taste: Fundamental seasonings that enhance the natural taste of the salmon.
  • 1/2 tsp garlic powder: Adds a subtle savory depth without overpowering.
  • 1/2 tsp paprika: Provides a beautiful color and mild smoky flavor.
  • 1/8 tsp cayenne pepper: Just a pinch for a gentle kick that wakes up the palate.
  • 1 tbsp extra virgin olive oil: Helps keep the salmon moist and infuses a delicate richness.
  • 2 avocados mashed: The star of the mash, creamy and buttery, complementing the salmon perfectly.
  • 1 lime zest grated: Offers a fragrant citrus aroma that lifts the entire dish.
  • 1 lime juice: Brightens the avocado mash with fresh, tangy notes.
  • Salt to taste: Balances the avocado’s natural richness.
  • Chopped dill: Adds a fresh, herbaceous touch that pairs wonderfully with fish.
  • 1/2 red onion chopped: Sprinkled on top for crunch and a sharp contrast to the creamy mash.

How to Make Baked Salmon with Avocado Mash

Step 1: Preheat and Prepare

Set your oven to 375 degrees Fahrenheit. This temperature is perfect for gently baking the salmon so it remains tender and moist inside while developing a lightly spiced crust on the outside.

Step 2: Season the Salmon

Lay the salmon fillets evenly on a baking dish. Sprinkle each with salt, black pepper, garlic powder, paprika, and cayenne pepper. Drizzle the fillets with extra virgin olive oil to lock in moisture and help the spices meld beautifully as they bake.

Step 3: Bake to Perfection

Pop the dish into the preheated oven and bake for 12 to 15 minutes. The salmon is done when it flakes easily with a fork but still feels juicy and tender—a texture that pairs perfectly with the creamy avocado topping.

Step 4: Mash the Avocado

While the salmon is baking, scoop the avocado flesh into a bowl and mash it until smooth but still slightly chunky for a rustic feel. Add the grated lime zest and fresh lime juice to brighten the mash, then season with salt and fold in chopped dill to introduce fresh herbal notes.

Step 5: Assemble the Dish

Once the salmon is out of the oven, generously spread the avocado mash over each fillet. Finish by sprinkling the chopped red onion on top, giving a wonderful crunch and a slight bite that balances the creamy avocado and tender fish.

How to Serve Baked Salmon with Avocado Mash

Baked Salmon with Avocado Mash Recipe - Recipe Image

Garnishes

Fresh herbs like dill or cilantro work beautifully as a garnish, adding a burst of green and a fresh aroma. A few extra lime wedges on the side invite an added splash of citrus for those who love a bit more zing.

Side Dishes

This dish shines when paired with light and wholesome sides. For a balanced plate, think crisp salads, roasted vegetables, or fluffy quinoa. These options not only complement the flavors but also maintain the healthy ethos of the meal.

Creative Ways to Present

For a dinner party, serve the Baked Salmon with Avocado Mash on a large platter garnished with edible flowers and extra dill sprigs. Or, turn it into a salad bowl by layering the salmon and avocado mash over mixed greens with a drizzle of lemon vinaigrette. Presentation can elevate this simple but elegant dish to a centerpiece worth celebrating.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

If you have leftovers, store the salmon and avocado mash separately in airtight containers in the refrigerator to preserve freshness. Salmon is best eaten within 2 days, while avocado mash might brown slightly but will still taste delicious.

Freezing

The salmon can be frozen after cooking if wrapped tightly, but the avocado mash does not freeze well as it tends to become watery and lose its creamy texture. It’s best to prepare the mash fresh when serving.

Reheating

To reheat the salmon, gently warm it in the oven at a low temperature or in a microwave at 50% power to avoid drying it out. Add a fresh scoop of avocado mash on top afterward to revive the creaminess and flavor.

FAQs

Can I use frozen salmon for this recipe?

Absolutely. Just be sure to thaw it completely and pat dry before seasoning and baking to maintain the best texture and flavor.

Is there a substitute for cayenne pepper if I don’t like heat?

Yes, simply omit the cayenne or replace it with a mild chili powder to keep some smoky depth without the heat.

How ripe should the avocados be for the mash?

Choose ripe avocados that yield slightly to gentle pressure. They should be soft enough to mash easily but not overly mushy or brown inside.

Can I make this dish dairy-free and gluten-free?

Definitely. This recipe is naturally gluten-free and dairy-free, making it a fantastic option for many dietary preferences.

What’s the best way to get lime zest without a zester?

If you don’t have a zester, use a fine grater or carefully slice thin strips of lime peel using a knife, avoiding the bitter white pith underneath, then finely chop them.

Final Thoughts

Baked Salmon with Avocado Mash is one of those recipes that feels fancy but is so easy to make, you’ll find yourself returning to it again and again. It’s fresh, vibrant, and wonderfully hearty all at once—perfect for nourishing yourself or impressing loved ones. I hope you give it a try and fall in love with the beautiful balance of flavors as much as I have!

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Baked Salmon with Avocado Mash Recipe

Enjoy a nutritious and flavorful dinner with this Baked Salmon with Avocado Mash recipe. Tender salmon fillets are seasoned with a blend of spices and olive oil, baked to perfection, and topped with a creamy avocado mash infused with fresh lime and dill. This dish is perfect for a healthy, high-protein meal that’s easy to prepare and delicious.

  • Author: Maya
  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: 15 minutes
  • Total Time: 25 minutes
  • Yield: 4 servings 1x
  • Category: Dinner
  • Method: Baking
  • Cuisine: American
  • Diet: Low Fat

Ingredients

Scale

Salmon

  • 4 salmon fillets
  • Salt and black pepper to taste
  • 1/2 tsp garlic powder
  • 1/2 tsp paprika
  • 1/8 tsp cayenne pepper
  • 1 tbsp extra virgin olive oil

Avocado Mash

  • 2 avocados, mashed
  • 1 lime zest, grated
  • 1 lime, juiced
  • Salt to taste
  • Chopped dill (about 1 tbsp)
  • 1/2 red onion, chopped

Instructions

  1. Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) to ensure a perfectly baked salmon.
  2. Prepare Salmon: Place the salmon fillets on a baking dish. Season them evenly with salt, black pepper, garlic powder, paprika, and cayenne pepper. Drizzle and coat the fillets with the extra virgin olive oil.
  3. Bake Salmon: Bake the seasoned salmon in the oven for 12-15 minutes until the fish is cooked through and flakes easily with a fork.
  4. Make Avocado Mash: While the salmon is baking, mash the avocados in a bowl. Add the grated lime zest and freshly squeezed lime juice. Season with salt and mix in chopped dill until all ingredients are well combined.
  5. Assemble the Dish: Once the salmon is fully cooked, remove from the oven and spoon the avocado mash generously over each fillet. Top with the chopped red onion for added crunch and flavor. Serve immediately.

Notes

  • Use ripe avocados for the best creamy texture and flavor.
  • Adjust cayenne pepper to your preferred spice level.
  • Fresh dill can be substituted with cilantro if desired.
  • Serve with a side of steamed vegetables or a fresh salad for a complete meal.
  • Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1 salmon fillet (9 oz with avocado mash)
  • Calories: 463 kcal
  • Sugar: 1.6 g
  • Sodium: 373 mg
  • Fat: 35 g
  • Saturated Fat: 6.4 g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 28.6 g
  • Trans Fat: 0 g
  • Carbohydrates: 12 g
  • Fiber: 7.5 g
  • Protein: 28 g
  • Cholesterol: 69 mg

Keywords: baked salmon, avocado mash, healthy dinner, high protein, easy salmon recipe, dairy-free, gluten free

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